Endoscope System with Multiple Connection Interfaces to Interface with Different Video Data Signal Sources

ABSTRACT

Endoscopes having a tip section with viewing elements coupled to a CMOS image sensor and/or a CCD image sensor for transforming light captured by the viewing element into digital and/or analog signals are described. A main connector is coupled with the tip section for transmitting the signals to a main control unit of the endoscope. The main connector includes a pad for transmitting digital signals provided by the CMOS image sensor to a push pin probe in a receptacle of the main control unit. The main connector also include another interface for transmitting analog signals to the main control unit.

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present specification relies on U.S. Patent Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/352,898 entitled “Control Unit and Connector for Detection of andConnection With Different Types of Endoscopes”, and filed on Jun. 21,2016.

The present application relates to U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/468,189, which has been assigned United States Patent PublicationNumber 20150057500, entitled “System for Connecting and Disconnecting AMain Connector and a Main Control Unit of An Endoscope”, filed on Aug.26, 2014, which in turn relies on U.S. Patent Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/870,144, of the same title, and filed on Aug. 26, 2013 and U.S.Patent Provisional Application No. 61/968,436, of the same title, andfiled on Mar. 21, 2014, for priority.

The above-listed applications are herein incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

FIELD

The present specification relates generally to endoscopes, and morespecifically, to a main control unit for detecting and responding todifferent types of image sensors positioned within an endoscope.

BACKGROUND

Endoscopes have attained great acceptance within the medical community,since they provide a means for performing procedures with minimalpatient trauma, while enabling the physician to view the internalanatomy of the patient. Over the years, numerous endoscopes have beendeveloped and categorized according to specific applications, such ascystoscopy, colonoscopy, laparoscopy, upper GI endoscopy and others.Endoscopes may be inserted into the body's natural orifices or throughan incision in the skin.

Some endoscopes have viewing elements for viewing an internal organ,such as the colon, and an illuminator for illuminating the field of viewof the viewing elements. The viewing elements and illuminators arelocated in a tip of the endoscope and are used to capture images of theinternal walls of the body cavity being endoscopically scanned. Thecaptured images are sent to a control unit coupled with the endoscopevia one of the channels present in the scope shaft, for being displayedon a screen coupled with the control unit. During an endoscopicprocedure, an operating physician guides the endoscope within apatient's body by using the captured images displayed on the screencoupled with the control unit as a guide.

Endoscopes capture images of internal organs by means of one or moreviewing elements such as cameras placed in a tip portion. Each viewingelement is coupled with an image sensor to transform that light capturedby the viewing element into at least one image. Image sensors may beCharged Coupled Devices (CCD's) or Complementary Metal OxideSemiconductor (CMOS) image sensors, or other suitable devices having alight sensitive surface usable for capturing an image. Signals such asanalog signals or digital signals generated by the image sensors aretransmitted to a main control unit via a main connector of the endoscopefor display on a screen coupled with the main control unit. CCD basedendoscopes are fitted with main connectors having a push/pull electricconnector, such as a LEMO® connector, which are commonly known in theart. A LEMO® connector fits into a corresponding LEMO® connectorinterface provided on a main control unit of the endoscope fortransmission of the analog image signals having a bandwidth of ⅓ GHz.However, CMOS image sensors generate digital image/video signals havinga bandwidth of the order of 1.5 GHz or more which is very high comparedto signals generated by the CCD image sensors, and, as a result cannotbe transmitted via a standard LEMO® interface.

There is a therefore a need for a main control unit interface and/oradapter that can support both CCD-based and CMOS-based main connectorfittings in endoscopes.

What is also needed is a high-speed transmission interface thatmaintains signal integrity and does not result in signal distortion thatcan be employed with CMOS-based endoscopes.

SUMMARY

The present specification discloses an endoscope system comprising: anendoscope comprising a tip section having at least one viewing element;a main connector coupled with the tip section and configured to receiveand transmit a first set of video data signals from the at least oneviewing element wherein the main connector comprises at least one pad;and a control unit comprising a receptacle positioned on an exteriorsurface of the control unit and configured to receive the mainconnector, wherein the receptacle has a first region, wherein the firstregion comprises at least one probe, wherein said at least one probecomprises a spring loaded pin, and wherein, upon attachment of the mainconnector to said receptacle, the at least one probe abuts the at leastone pad such that the at least one probe is compressed.

Optionally, the at least one pad is planar and metallic.

Optionally, the first region comprises a light guide, a gas channel, anda second probe.

Optionally, the main connector comprises a second pad wherein, uponattachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the second probeabuts the second pad such that the second probe is compressed.

Optionally, the receptacle further comprises a second region and whereinsaid second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured to receivea second set of video data signals and wherein the second set of videodata signals have a lower bandwidth than a bandwidth of the first set ofvideo data signals.

Optionally, the first set of video data signals are generated by a CMOSsensor in the at least one viewing element and have a bandwidth greaterthan 1 GHz.

Optionally, the second set of video data signals are generated by a CCDsensor in the at least one viewing element and have a bandwidth lessthan 0.5 GHz.

Optionally, the first region comprises a light guide, a gas channel, asecond probe, and a third probe, wherein the at least one probe, thesecond probe and third probe are positioned circumferentially around atleast one of the light guide and gas channel and wherein each of thesecond probe and the third probe comprises a spring-loaded pin.

Optionally, the main connector comprises a second pad and a third padand wherein, upon attachment of the main connector to said receptacle,the second probe abuts the second pad such that the second probe iscompressed and the third probe abuts the third pad such that the thirdprobe is compressed.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope system comprising:an endoscope comprising a tip section having a first viewing element anda second viewing element; a main connector coupled with the tip sectionand configured to receive and transmit a first set of video data signalsfrom the first viewing element and a second set of video data signalsfrom the second viewing element, wherein the main connector comprises afirst pad in data communication with the first viewing element and asecond pad in data communication with the second viewing element; and acontrol unit comprising a receptacle positioned on an exterior surfaceof the control unit and configured to receive the main connector,wherein the receptacle has a first region, wherein the first regioncomprises a first probe and a second probe, wherein each of the firstprobe and second probe comprises a spring loaded pin, and wherein, uponattachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the first probeabuts the first pad such that the first probe is compressed and thesecond probe abuts the second pad such that the second probe iscompressed.

Optionally, each of the first pad and second pad is planar and metallic.

Optionally, the receptacle further comprises a second region whereinsaid second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured to receivea third set of video data signals and the third set of video datasignals have a lower bandwidth than a bandwidth of the first set ofvideo data signals or a bandwidth of the second set of video datasignals.

Optionally, the first set of video data signals are generated by a CMOSsensor and have a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.

Optionally, the third set of video data signals are generated by a CCDsensor and have a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope control unitconfigured to attach to, and be in data communication with, anendoscope, the endoscope control unit comprising a receptacle positionedon an exterior surface of the control unit and configured to receive amain connector of the endoscope; a first region positioned within anexterior face of the receptacle, wherein the first region comprises afirst probe, wherein the first probe comprises a spring loaded pinconfigured to receive a first set of video data signals having a firstbandwidth; a second region positioned within the exterior face of thereceptacle and separated from the first region, wherein the secondregion comprises an interface configured to receive a second set ofvideo data signals having a second bandwidth.

Optionally, the interface of the second region comprises a multi-pininterface configured attach to a complementary multi-pin interface in aconnector of the endoscope.

Optionally, the first probe is configured to be compressed uponattachment of the receptacle to a connector of the endoscope.

Optionally, the first set of video data signals comprise digital datawith a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.

Optionally, the second set of video data signals comprise digital datawith a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.

Optionally, the first region further comprises a light guide, a gaschannel, a second probe, and a third probe, wherein the first probe, thesecond probe and third probe are positioned circumferentially around atleast one of the light guide and gas channel and wherein each of thesecond probe and the third probe comprises a spring loaded pin.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope comprising: a tipsection comprising a plurality of viewing elements coupled with at leastone CMOS image sensor for transforming light captured by at least oneviewing element into digital signals representing at least one image;and a main connector coupled with the tip section for transmitting thedigital signals to a main control unit of the endoscope, the mainconnector comprising: a plurality of pads for transmitting the digitalsignals to a plurality of probes provided on a main connector housing ofthe main control unit, the probes comprising spring loaded tips pushingagainst the pads during the digital signal transmission.

Optionally, the viewing elements are cameras.

Optionally, the digital signal generated by the CMOS sensor is ahigh-speed signal having a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz.

Optionally, the number of pads provided on the main connectorcorresponds to the number of probes provided on the main connectorhousing.

Optionally, each pad is positioned on the main connector in alignmentwith a corresponding probe on the main connector housing of the maincontrol unit.

The present specification also discloses a main connector of anendoscope coupled with a tip section comprising: a plurality of viewingelements coupled with at least one CMOS image sensor for transforminglight captured by the viewing element into digital signals representingat least one image, wherein the main connector comprises a plurality ofpads for transmitting the digital signals to a plurality of probesprovided on a main connector housing of the main control unit, andwherein the probes comprise spring loaded tips pushing against the padsduring the digital signal transmission.

The present specification also discloses a control unit for couplingwith main connectors of endoscopes comprising one or both of CCD basedsensors and CMOS based sensors for transforming light captured by one ormore viewing elements of the endoscope into signals representing atleast one image, the control unit comprising a plurality of probes forreceiving the signals from the endoscope via a main connector comprisingone or more pads for transmitting the signals, the probes comprisingspring loaded tips pushing against the pads during the signaltransmission.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope comprising: a tipsection comprising a plurality of viewing elements coupled with at leastone or both of a CMOS image sensor and a CCD image sensor fortransforming light captured by the viewing element into digital and/oranalog signals; and a main connector coupled with the tip section fortransmitting the signals to a main control unit of the endoscope,wherein the main connector comprises: a plurality of pads fortransmitting digital signals provided by the CMOS image sensor to aplurality of probes provided on a main connector housing of the maincontrol unit; and a connector for transmitting the analog signals havinga bandwidth of less than 0.5 GHz provided by the at least one imagesensor via the main connector housing of the main control unit.

Optionally, the viewing elements are cameras.

Optionally, the digital signal generated by the CMOS sensor is ahigh-speed signal having a bandwidth of 1.5 GHz.

Optionally, the main connector comprises a plurality of pads fortransmitting the digital signals to a plurality of probes provided on amain connector housing of the main control unit, the probes comprisingspring-loaded tips pushing against the pads during the digital signaltransmission.

Optionally, the main connector comprises a plurality of pads fortransmitting the digital signals to a plurality of twisted pair cablesprovided on a main connector housing of the main control unit.

Optionally, the number of pads provided on the main connectorcorresponds to the number of probes provided on the main connectorhousing.

Optionally, each pad is positioned on the main connector in alignmentwith a corresponding probe on the main connector housing of the maincontrol unit.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope comprising: a tipsection comprising a plurality of viewing elements coupled with at leastone image sensor for transforming light captured by the viewing elementsinto signals, and a main connector coupled with the tip section fortransmitting the signals to a main control unit of the endoscope; themain connector comprising: a LEMO® connector for transmitting analogsignals provided by the at least one image sensor via the main connectorhousing of the main control unit, and at least one pad for transmittingdigital signals provided by at least one image sensor to at least oneprobe provided on a main connector housing of the main control unit.

Optionally, the at least one image sensor is a CMOS sensor. Stilloptionally, the at least one image sensor is a CCD sensor.

Optionally, the at least one probe is adapted to connect with at leastone connection means for transmitting digital signals provided by theCMOS image sensor. Still optionally, the connection means may be one ofa spring loaded push-pin probe, coaxial probe or twisted pair.

The present specification also disclose an endoscope comprising: a tipsection comprising at least one viewing element coupled with an imagesensor for transforming light captured by the at least one viewingelement into signals, and a main connector coupled with the tip sectionfor transmitting the signals to a main control unit of the endoscope,wherein the main connector comprises: a LEMO® connector for transmittingthe analog signals provided by the image sensor via the main connectorhousing of the main control unit, and at least one pad for transmittingdigital signals provided by the image sensor to at least one probeprovided on a main connector housing of the main control unit.

Optionally, the at least one image sensor is a CMOS sensor. Stilloptionally, the at least one image sensor is a CCD sensor.

Optionally, the at least one probe is adapted to connect with at leastone connection means for transmitting digital signals provided by theCMOS image sensor. Still optionally, the connection means may be one ofa spring loaded push-pin probe, coaxial probe or twisted pair.

The present specification also discloses a control unit for couplingwith main connectors of endoscopes comprising one or both of CCD basedsensors and CMOS based sensors for transforming light captured by one ormore viewing elements of the endoscope into digital and/or analogsignals representing at least one image, the control unit comprising aplurality of probes for receiving the digital and/or analog signals fromthe endoscope via a main connector comprising one or more pads fortransmitting the digital and/or analog signals, the probes comprisingspring loaded tips pushing against the pads during the digital and/oranalog signal transmission.

The aforementioned and other embodiments of the present specificationshall be described in greater depth in the drawings and detaileddescription provided below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present specificationwill be appreciated, as they become better understood by reference tothe following detailed description when considered in connection withthe accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A shows a semi-pictorial view of a multi-camera endoscopy system,according to some embodiments;

FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a front panel of amain control unit of a multi-camera endoscopy system;

FIG. 2A illustrates a system for connecting a main connector to a maincontrol unit of an endoscope, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent specification;

FIG. 2B illustrates a main connector securely connected to a maincontrol unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification;

FIG. 3 illustrates a main connector housing on a front panel of a maincontrol unit of an endoscope;

FIG. 4 illustrates a main connector of the endoscope;

FIG. 5A illustrates a main connector housing/receptacle of a maincontrol unit that is interchangeably compatible with both a CCD-basedendoscope as well as a CMOS-based endoscope, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5B illustrates a main connector housing/receptacle of a maincontrol unit that is interchangeably compatible with both a CCD-basedendoscope as well as a CMOS-based endoscope, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5C is a diagram of a probe employed in a main connector housing, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 6A is an illustration of a main connector of an endoscopecomprising CMOS sensors, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification;

FIG. 6B is an illustration of a main connector of an endoscopecomprising CMOS sensors, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification;

FIG. 7 details how a video controller or the controller circuit board ofthe main controller of an endoscope operatively connects with theendoscope and its display units; and

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of detecting andtransferring signals captured by using CCD or CMOS sensors coupled withviewing elements of an endoscope, from the endoscope to a main controlunit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present specification provides an endoscope that uses CMOS sensorsin conjunction with cameras for capturing images of internal organs andconverting the same into digital data. In an embodiment, the presentspecification provides a main control unit comprising an electricalinterface for recognizing and subsequently connecting with both a CMOSsensor-based endoscope as well as a CCD sensor-based endoscope. In anembodiment, the present specification provides a main connector for CMOSbased endoscopes comprising connector pads for connecting with probesprovided on a main control unit of the endoscope. In some embodiments,the probe is a spring-loaded push-pin probe. In some embodiments, thepresent specification describes a main connector that can securelyconnect with a high-speed transmission interface provided in the maincontrol unit. It should be appreciated that the term “pads” or“plurality of pads” refers to one or more planar surfaces, preferablymetallic, configured to interface with the probes described herein. Itshould further be appreciated that the planar pad surface, with orwithout any extensions or members around a periphery of the pad, isconfigured to compress the probe, to thereby establish a dataconnection.

It is noted that the term “endoscope” as mentioned herein may referparticularly to a colonoscope, according to some embodiments, but is notlimited only to colonoscopes. The term “endoscope” may refer to anyinstrument used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity ofthe body.

It should also be noted that a plurality of terms, as follows, appearingin this specification are used interchangeably to apply or refer tosimilar components and should in no way be construed as limiting:

-   -   “Utility tube/cable” may also be referred to as an “umbilical        tube/cable”.    -   A “main control unit” may also be referred to as a “controller        unit”, “main controller” or “fuse box”.    -   A “viewing element” may also be referred to as an image        capturing device/component, viewing components, camera, TV        camera or video camera.

The present specification is directed towards multiple embodiments. Thefollowing disclosure is provided in order to enable a person havingordinary skill in the art to practice the specification. Language usedin this specification should not be interpreted as a general disavowalof any one specific embodiment or used to limit the claims beyond themeaning of the terms used therein. The general principles defined hereinmay be applied to other embodiments and applications without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the specification. In addition, theterminology and phraseology is used for the purpose of describingexemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, thepresent specification is to be accorded the widest scope encompassingnumerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with theprinciples and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, detailsrelating to technical material that is known in the technical fieldsrelated to the specification have not been described in detail so as notto unnecessarily obscure the present specification.

In the description and claims of the application, each of the words“comprise” “include” and “have”, and forms thereof, are not necessarilylimited to members in a list with which the words may be associated. Itshould be noted herein that any feature or component described inassociation with a specific embodiment may be used and implemented withany other embodiment unless clearly indicated otherwise.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1A, which shows a multi-viewing elementsendoscopy system 100. System 100 may include a multi-viewing elementsendoscope 102. Multi-viewing elements endoscope 102 may include a handle104, from which an elongated shaft 106 emerges. Elongated shaft 106terminates with a tip section 108, which is turnable by way of a bendingsection 110. Handle 104 may be used for maneuvering elongated shaft 106within a body cavity. The handle may include one or more buttons and/orknobs and/or switches 105, which control bending section 110 as well asfunctions such as fluid injection and suction. Handle 104 may furtherinclude at least one, and in some embodiments, one or more workingchannel openings 112 through which surgical tools may be inserted aswell as one and more side service channel openings.

A utility cable 114, also referred to as an umbilical tube, may connectbetween handle 104 and a Main Control Unit 199. In embodiments, utilitycable 114 connects with the main control unit 199 via a main connector(shown in FIG. 2A). Utility cable 114 may include therein one or morefluid channels and one or more electrical channels. The electricalchannel(s) may include at least one data cable for receiving videosignals from the front and side-pointing viewing elements, as well as atleast one power cable for providing electrical power to the viewingelements and to the discrete illuminators.

The main control unit 199 contains the controls required for displayingthe images and/or video streams of internal organs captured by theendoscope 102. The main control unit 199 may govern power transmissionto the endoscope's 102 tip section 108, such as for the tip section'sviewing elements and illuminators. The main control unit 199 may furthercontrol one or more fluid, liquid and/or suction pump(s), which supplycorresponding functionalities to the endoscope 102. One or more inputdevices 118, such as a keyboard, a touch screen and the like may beconnected to the main control unit 199 for the purpose of humaninteraction with the main control unit 199. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1A, the main control unit 199 comprises a screen/display 120 fordisplaying operation information concerning an endoscopy procedure whenthe endoscope 102 is in use. The screen 120 may be configured to displayimages and/or video streams received from the viewing elements of themulti-viewing element endoscope 102. The screen 120 may further beoperative to display a user interface for allowing a human operator toset various features of the endoscopy system.

Optionally, the images and/or video streams received from the differentviewing elements of the multi-viewing element endoscope 102 may bedisplayed separately on at least one monitor (not seen) by uploadinginformation from the main control unit 199, either side-by-side orinterchangeably (namely, the operator may switch between views from thedifferent viewing elements manually). Alternatively, these images and/orvideo streams may be processed by the main control unit 116 to combinethem into a single, panoramic video frame, based on an overlap betweenfields of view of the viewing elements. In an embodiment, two or moredisplays may be connected to the main control unit 199, each fordisplaying a video stream from a different viewing element of themulti-viewing element endoscope 102. The main control unit 199 isdescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/263,896, entitled“Video Processing in A Compact Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope System”,and filed on Apr. 28, 2014, which is herein incorporated by reference inits entirety.

FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a control panel ofa main control unit of a multi-camera endoscopy system. As shown in FIG.1B, the control panel 101 contains a main connector housing 103 having afront panel 107. The main connector housing front panel 107 comprises afirst section 111, containing a light guide opening 113 and a gaschannel opening 115, and a second section 117, comprising a utilitycable opening 119. The light guide opening 113 and gas channel opening115 are configured to receive and connect with a light guide and a gaschannel respectively, on a main connector, and the utility cable opening119 is configured to receive and connect with an electric connector of ascope. A switch 121 is used to switch on and switch off the main controlunit.

FIG. 2A illustrates a main connector proximate to a main control unit,in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Asillustrated, the main connector 202 comprises a jet connector 204,wherein the jet connector 204 is typically connected to a fluid supplierto provide fluid to a jet opening in an endoscope tip, a water bottleconnector 206, wherein the water bottle connector 206 is typicallyengaged to a water supplier, such as a water bottle or hospitalfacilities, to provide fluid to an insufflation and/or irrigation systemplaced within the endoscope tip, an electric connector 208, wherein theelectric connector 208 connects between electronics components withinthe endoscope, such as but not limited to, sensors, illuminators, handleof the endoscope and the main control unit to provide electricity to thevarious components, a gas channel 210, wherein the gas channel 210typically provides gas flow to the tip of the endoscope and a lightguide pin 212. The main connector 202 is connected with a utility cable214. The main control unit 216 comprises a front panel 218 having ascreen 220 for operation information concerning an endoscopy procedurewhen the endoscope is in use. The main control unit 216 also comprises amain connector housing 222 for receiving the main connector 202. Themain connector housing 222 comprises a first section 224 for connectingwith the light guide pin 212 and the gas channel 210 and a secondsection 226 for receiving the electric connector 208. The front panel218 further comprises a button 228 for switching the main control unit216 on or off.

FIG. 2B illustrates a main connector securely connected to a maincontrol unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Referring to both FIGS. 2A and 2B, in various embodiments, the mainconnector 202 is connected to the main control unit 216 when the lightguide pin 212 and the gas channel 210 are inserted into a light guideopening and a gas channel opening, respectively both placed within thefirst section 224 opening of the main connector housing 222. Also,electric connector 208 is inserted into the second section 226 openingof the main connector housing 222.

FIG. 3 illustrates a main connector housing/receptacle on the maincontrol unit front panel of an endoscope. FIG. 4 illustrates a mainconnector of an endoscope. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 simultaneously,the main control unit front panel 301 comprises a receptacle 302comprising two sections, a first section comprising a light guideopening 304 and a gas channel opening 306 and a second sectioncomprising a utility cable opening 308. The gas channel opening 306receives and connects with a gas channel (shown in FIG. 2A) and theutility cable opening 308 receives and connects with a main connector(shown in FIG. 2A). In embodiments, the utility cable opening 308comprises a push/pull electric connector interface, such as a LEMO®connector interface, which is commonly known in the art. Endoscopescomprising viewing elements coupled with CCD sensors are equipped withLEMO® connectors for transmission of the analog image signals capturedby the viewing elements and CCD sensors to the main control unit via theutility cable opening 308 having the LEMO® connector interface.

However, endoscopes comprising CMOS sensors coupled with viewingelements for capturing images and videos of internal body organs thatare being endoscopically scanned require a separate connection interfacefor transmission of the captured digital signals as these signals cannotbe transmitted via a LEMO® interface. In an embodiment, an interface(described with reference to FIG. 5A), comprising probes used fortransmitting such signals, may optionally also be provided on thereceptacle 302 and is described with reference to FIG. 5A. Thereceptacle 302 may also comprise locking elements such as but notlimited to a mechanical lever adjusted to mechanically engage anddisengage the main connector from receptacle 302.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the main connector 410 comprises a jetconnector 412, a water bottle connector 414, and an electrical connector416. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 simultaneously, in an embodiment,electrical connector 416 comprises, but is not limited to, a LEMO®connector 418, which connects with a LEMO® connector interface in theutility cable opening 308 provided on receptacle 302 of front panel 301of the main control unit of the endoscope. It should be noted herein, asdescribed in further detail below, that electrical connector 416 mayalso comprise a connector interface that enables connection of aCMOS-image based endoscopic device. Electrical connector 416 connectsthe electronics components within the endoscope, such as but not limitedto, sensors, illuminators, handle of the endoscope to the main controlunit via a utility cable 420. Utility cable 420 may include therein oneor more fluid channels and one or more electrical channels. Theelectrical channel(s) may include at least one data cable for receivingvideo signals from the front and at least one side-pointing viewingelements, as well as at least one power cable for providing electricalpower to the viewing elements and to the discrete illuminators. Inendoscopes comprising CCD sensors coupled with the viewing elements, thedata cable transmits the analog image signals captured by the viewingelements to the main control unit via LEMO® connector 418, whichconnects with the LEMO® connector interface 308 provided on receptacle302 of the main control unit. In various embodiments, the data cable ofthe utility cable 420 also transmits digital signals provided by CMOSsensors present in the endoscope's tip to the main connector and then tothe main control unit via connection means such as those described inFIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C provided on the main connector and the receptacle ofthe main control unit.

Main connector 410 further comprises a gas channel 422, which connectswith the gas channel opening 306 and a light guide pin 424, which goesinto the light guide opening 304 of receptacle 302 in order to connectthe main connector 410 with the main control unit. Main connectorfurther comprises pins 426, which enable secure locking of the mainconnector 410 with the utility cable opening 308. Also in embodiments, aconnector cover cup may be provided to cover the electrical connector416 during reprocessing cycles (washing/cleaning) of the endoscope inorder to make the endoscope waterproof.

FIG. 5A illustrates a main connector housing of a main control unit thatis compatible with both a CCD-based endoscope as well as a CMOS-basedendoscope, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. Receptacle 500 is provided on a main control unit of anendoscope system as illustrated in FIGS. 1B, 2A, 2B and 3. Thereceptacle 500 comprises a first section 502 and a second section 510.In various embodiments, the second section 510 comprises a multi-pinanalog interface 512 (308 of FIG. 3), such as a LEMO® interface, that isused to transmit analog signals captured by CCD sensors coupled withviewing elements of the endoscope to the main control unit. The firstsection 502 comprises openings 504 and 506 for connecting with a lightguide pin and a gas channel, respectively, of a main connector of anendoscope. Further, since receptacle 500 is compatible with an endoscopehaving CMOS sensors coupled with viewing elements/cameras, the firstsection 502 also comprises at least one probe 508, which is used totransfer the high frequency digital image and video signals captured bythe CMOS sensors and viewing elements to the main control unit. Inembodiments, the at least one probe is preferably a spring-loaded pushpin probe.

More generally, the main connector housing 500, which is configured toreceive a proximal end of an endoscope, comprises two distinctconnection regions that are separated by a planar portion of the housing500. The first connection region comprises receiving portions 504 and506 for connecting with a light guide pin and a gas channel,respectively, of a main connector of an endoscope. Positionedcircumferentially around the light guide pin and gas channel are one ormore interfaces 508 configured to receive digital data having abandwidth of 1 GHz or more from one or more complementary interfacespositioned in the main connector of an endoscope. In an embodiment, anexemplary interface comprises a coaxial probe interface having aspring-loaded signal pin that compresses upon coupling with acomplementary pad in the endoscope main connector and is adapted toreceive digital transmissions having bandwidths of more than 1 GHz. Inan embodiment, an exemplary interface comprises a probe interface havinga spring-loaded push-pin. In another embodiment, an exemplary interfacecomprises a coaxial female receiver that receives a complementary malecoaxial single pin connector and is optimized to receive digital signalshaving greater bandwidth than the data transmissions in the secondregion. The probe compression and pad combination is preferred, however,because it obviates the need for a user to precisely align multipleextending members with multiple holes in order to achieve the requisitefit. Rather, using compressible pins and pads, the digital dataconnections in the first region are automatically achieved when theother components, such as the light guide, gas channel, and secondregion analog connections, are properly mated.

The second connection region comprises a receiver interface that isadapted to connect to, and receive data through, one or more multi-pinanalog connectors. An exemplary interface comprises a multi-pininterface that receives a single coaxial, push-pull, multi-pin connectorand is adapted to receive analog transmissions having bandwidths of lessthan 0.5 GHz. In another embodiment, an exemplary interface comprises amulti-pin interface that receives a single coaxial, push-pull, multi-pinconnector and is optimized to receive analog signals having lessbandwidth than the data transmissions in the first region.

It should be appreciated that the light guide pin and gas channel couldbe positioned in the second region, rather than the first, that thelight guide pin could be positioned in the second region while the gaschannel is in the first region, or that the light guide pin could bepositioned in the first region while the gas channel is in the secondregion. It should further be appreciated that the positions of theplanar pad structures in the endoscope connector, configured to matewith the spring-loaded pin probes in the first region of the receptacle,can be switched, thereby placing the planar pad structures in thereceptacle and the spring loaded pins in the endoscope connector.

In an embodiment, first section 502 comprises at least two probes 508(one for each viewing element/camera of the endoscope) for transferringhigh-speed image and video data captured by using CMOS sensors from theendoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500. In anembodiment, first section 502 comprises at least three probes 508 (onefor each viewing element/camera of the endoscope) for transferringhigh-speed image and video data captured by using CMOS sensors from theendoscope to the main control unit via the receptacle 500. In variousembodiments, the probes 508 may be placed at any location on thereceptacle 500.

FIG. 5B illustrates another exemplary position of the probes 508 shownin FIG. 5A, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. As shown in FIG. 5B the probes 508 are positioned in thesecond section 510, which also comprises the electrical push/pullmulti-pin interface 512 for connecting with a main connector of a CCDbased endoscope. The probes 508 transfer high-speed image and videodata, captured using CMOS sensors, from the endoscope to the maincontrol unit via the receptacle 500.

In an embodiment, a probe 508 has an impedance of 50 ohms, is capable oftransmitting high-speed signals in the range of 0 to 2 GHz capacitywithout compromising the signal integrity, and comprises a spring-loadedtip. In embodiments, any commonly available probe capable oftransmitting high-speed signals of about 2 GHz may be employed in themain connector housing/receptacle 500. In an embodiment, probes designedto make a spring-loaded connection to sub miniature version A (SMA)sockets may be employed, as this substitutes the need for sacrificialplugs and sockets. In an exemplary embodiment, a probe having thefollowing specifications may be employed:

-   -   Impedance: 50 Ohms;    -   Working travel: 4.24 mm (0.167″);    -   Spring force at working travel for outer shield: 57 g (2.0 oz);    -   Spring force at working travel for inner contact: 113 g (4.0        oz);    -   Current rating (DC): 3 Amp;    -   Maximum Frequency (3 db c/o): 2.5 GHz;    -   YSWR: 1.15:1@1 GHz;    -   Ins loss: 0.13 db@1 Ghz;    -   Required tail connector: SMB Plug.

FIG. 5C illustrates a diagrammatical view of a probe employed in a mainconnector housing, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. Probe 508 comprises a spring loaded tip portion 514 andan insulator portion 516 surrounded by a metallic shield 518. Probe 508transfers high speed digital image and video signals captured by CMOSsensors provided in an endoscope's tip portion via a utility cable to amain connector of the endoscope and then to the endoscope's main controlunit via SMA connectors provided within the receptacle 500 into which adistal end 520 of the probe 508 is fitted. In various embodiments, thesame utility cable that is used to transfer images captured by the CCDsensors of the endoscope to the control unit is used for transferringhigh-speed digital image and video signals captured by CMOS sensorsprovided in an endoscope's tip to the control unit.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a main connector of an endoscope comprisingCMOS sensors, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. As illustrated in FIG. 6A, main connector 600 comprises afirst section 602 which further comprises at least a light guide pin604, which fits into a light guide pin opening (such as opening 504shown in FIG. 5A) on a main control unit; and a gas channel 606, whichfits into a gas channel opening (such as opening 506 shown in FIG. 5A)on a main control unit. First section 602 is also equipped with one ormore pads 608, such that each pad is placed in alignment with a probe(such as probe 508 shown in FIG. 5A) provided on a receptacle of a maincontrol unit of the endoscope. Main connector 600 may also comprise asecond section 612, which includes a LEMO® connector 610.

FIG. 6B illustrates a main connector 600 comprising a first section 602which further comprises at least a light guide pin 604, which fits intoa light guide pin opening (such as opening 504 shown in FIG. 5B) on amain control unit; and a gas channel 606 which fits into a gas channelopening (such as opening 506 shown in FIG. 5B) on a main control unit. Asecond section 612 of main connector 600 comprises the LEMO® connector610 and is also provided with one or more pads 608, such that each padis placed in alignment with a probe (such as probe 508 shown in FIG. 5B)provided on a receptacle of a main control unit of the endoscope. Pads608 are resistant to aggressive substances. Between each medicalprocedure, the endoscope must be reprocessed, which may include the useof chemical ingredients to clean the endoscope and prepare it for thenext patient. In various embodiments, pads 608 are resistant towardsalteration or damage by any chemicals used for reprocessing theendoscope. In various embodiments, the pads 608 are commonly availableand comprise a metal coating/cover for establishing an electricalconnection with tips of cables, such as but not limited to coaxialcables. In an embodiment, pads 608 are covered with gold for enablingconnectivity.

When the connector 600 is connected to a main control unit's receptacle,such as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, the pads 608 press against spring loadedtips of the probes causing a secure connection through which high-speedsignals from CMOS sensors employed in the endoscope's tip may betransmitted to the main control unit. The high speed signals aretransferred from the viewing elements to the pads 608 via the utilitycable (shown in FIG. 1A); and from the pads 608 to the main control unitvia the cables through the probes provided on the receptacle.

In various embodiments, the number of pads 608 provided on mainconnector 600 corresponds to the number of probes provided on the maincontrol unit. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6A, 6B,each probe and pad pair is coupled with a viewing element placed in atip portion of the endoscope for transmitting the image/video capturedby the viewing element to the main control unit. Main connectors ofendoscopes employing only CCD based image sensors are not provided withpads 608. Image data from such endoscopes is transmitted to the maincontrol unit via LEMO® connector 610 provided on the second section 612of main connector 600. In an embodiment, pads 608 may be replaced by anyother suitable connecting element for transferring high-speed signalsfrom CMOS sensors employed in the endoscope's tip to the main controlunit via the main connector.

In another embodiment, twisted-pair cabling commonly known in the artmay be used for transferring the high frequency digital image and videosignals captured by the CMOS sensors and viewing elements to the maincontrol unit, instead of coaxial cables. Twisted pair cabling is a typeof wiring in which two conductors of a single circuit are twistedtogether for the purposes of canceling out electromagnetic (EMI) fromexternal sources. Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in an embodiment, firstsection 502 comprises at least one twisted pair for transferringhigh-speed video data from the endoscope to the main control unit viathe receptacle 500.

As may be apparent to persons of skill in the art, in variousembodiments, other suitable means may be provided on the endoscopeconnector and receptacle, to transfer high speed video data from CMOSsensors of the endoscope to the main control unit, along with a LEMO®connector; thereby making the endoscope and receptacle compatible withboth CCD and CMOS sensors.

FIG. 7 details how a video controller or the controller circuit board720 of the main controller of an endoscope operatively connects with theendoscope 710 and the display units 750. Referring to FIG. 7, videocontroller/controller circuit board 720 comprises a camera board 721that controls the power supplies to the LEDs 711, transmits controls forthe operation of image sensor(s) 712 (comprising one or more cameras) inthe endoscope, and converts pre-video signals from image sensors tostandard video signals. The image sensor 712 may be a charge coupleddevice (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imager.The camera board 721 receives pre-video signal(s) 713 generated by theCCD imager and also other remote commands 714 from the endoscope 710.

Controller circuit board 720 further comprises elements for processingthe video obtained from the image sensors 712 through the camera board721, as well as other elements for system monitoring and control.

These elements are connected with the Base Board Module 752, which is aPCB. In one embodiment, elements which are ICs (Integrated Circuits) areconnected by soldering, element 726 (SOM or System on Module) isconnected by mounting, while all other elements are connected by meansof cables.

Various elements on the Base Board Module 9052 are described as follows:

FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 723:

FPGA 723 is a logic device programmed specifically for the systemrequirements and performs tasks that may be categorized by two types:logic tasks which are preferably implemented by hardware (as opposed tosoftware), and logic tasks related to video image processing. In oneembodiment, the Base Board Module 752 includes one or more double datarate type three synchronous dynamic random access memory modules (DDR3)733 in communication with the FPGA 723.

Logic tasks, which are preferably implemented by hardware, include, butare not limited to:

-   -   Initializing some Base Board Module's 752 ICs upon system        power-up;    -   Monitoring the buttons 740 for White Balance, LED on/off, Air        Flow, and Power on/off on the front-panel 735;    -   Monitoring SOM's 726 proper operation using a watch-dog        mechanism;    -   Backing-up some of the system's parameters (example: airflow        level), even while the system is switched off; and    -   Communicating with the Camera Board 721.

Logic tasks related to video image processing, which are implemented bysoftware or hardware include, but are not limited to:

-   -   Multiplexing video inputs—Each of the multiple imaging elements        has several video interfaces, which are multiplexed via Video        Input Interface 751. Further, several auxiliaries are        multiplexed via Auxiliary Video Input Interface 725.    -   Optional digital signal processor (DSP) 722 playback output and        DSP record input.    -   Internal test pattern to video outputs via Video Output        Interface 724 to multiple displays.    -   Conversion between cameras' video standard to display video        standard.    -   OSD (On Screen Display) insertion, also known as graphic        overlay.    -   PIP (Picture-in-Picture).    -   Stitching images from several cameras into one image displayed        on a single screen.    -   Image adjustments, such as brightness, contrast, etc.

DSP (Digital Signal Processor) 722:

DSP 722 is used for recording compressed (coded) video and playing backdecompressed (decoded) video. In one embodiment, the standard ofcompressed video is H264 or equivalent (such as MPEG).

Operationally, FPGA 723 selects for the DSP 722 the desired video to berecorded, i.e. any of the inputs, or, more likely, a copy of one or moreof the screens. In the latter case, this includes the OSD and formatconversion. In the likely case of the screen's format differing fromthat of DSP's 722 required video input format, the FPGA 723 alsoconverts the screen's format to the desired DSP 722 format whiletransmitting video to the DSP 722.

Auxiliary Video Input Interface 725:

In one embodiment, the video input to the Auxiliary Video InputInterface 725 may comprise analog video, such as in CVBS (color, video,blanking, sync), S-Video or YP_(B)P_(R) format or digital video (DVI),and may be displayed as such.

SOM (System on Module) 726:

The SOM 726 provides an interface to input devices such as keyboard,mouse, and touchscreen via Touch I/F 727. Through these input devices,together with the buttons 740 in the Front Panel 735, the user controlsthe system's functionality and operational parameters. In oneembodiment, a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) busconnects the SOM 726 with the FPGA 723. Most common types of datatraffic over the PCIe are:

a. SOM 726 to FPGA 723: Commands (for example, when the user changesoperational parameters); and

b. FPGA 723 to SOM 726: Registers values, which provide an indication ofthe internal status, and captured images.

Other Functionalities:

The controller circuit board 720 may further control one or more fluid,liquid and/or suction pump(s), which supply correspondingfunctionalities to the endoscope through pneumatic I/F 728, pump 729 andcheck valve 730. The controller circuit board 720 further comprises anon-board power supply 745 and a front panel 735, which providesoperational buttons 740 for the user.

The camera board 721 receives video signal 713 which, in one embodiment,comprises three video feeds, corresponding to video pickups by threeendoscopic tip viewing elements (one front and two side-looking viewingelements), as generated by the image sensor 712. In one embodiment, thethree video feed pickups, corresponding to the three viewing elements(the front-looking, left-side looking and right-side looking viewingelements) of an endoscopic tip, are displayed on three respectivemonitors.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the method of detecting andtransferring signals captured by using CCD or CMOS sensors coupled withviewing elements of an endoscope, from the endoscope to a main controlunit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. Invarious embodiments, the endoscope is provided with means to transferboth the analog signals captured by using CCD sensors as well as highspeed digital signals captured by using CMOS sensors and the maincontrol unit is provided with means for receiving both the kinds ofsignals. In embodiments, the endoscope is connected to the main controlunit by using a connector comprising a LEMO® connector (such as LEMO®connector 610 shown in FIGS. 6a -6B) as well as one or more pads (suchas pads 608 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B); and the main control unit comprises areceptacle having both a LEMO® interface (such as LEMO® interface 512shown in FIGS. 5A-5B) and at least one probe (such as probe 508 shown inFIGS. 5A-5B) or a twisted pair cable.

At step 802, the main connector of the endoscope is inserted into thereceptacle of the main control unit for transferring the signalscaptured by the viewing elements of the endoscope coupled with eitherCMOS or CCD sensors, to the main control unit. At step 804, it isdetermined if at least one pad of the connector is aligned with either aprobe, such as a spring-loaded push-pin probe or a twisted pair cablepresent on the receptacle of the main controller. If at least one pad ofthe connector is aligned with either a probe or a twisted pair cablepresent on the receptacle, then at step 806 it is determined that theendoscope comprises CMOS sensors. Next, at step 808, high-speed imageand video digital signals captured by using CMOS sensors coupled withthe viewing elements of the endoscope are transferred to the maincontrol unit via the connection between the pads on the connector andthe probes or the twisted pair cables on the receptacle. If at least onepad of the connector is not aligned with either a probe or a twistedpair cable present on the receptacle, then at step 810 it is determinedthat the endoscope comprises CCD sensors. Next, at step 812 analogsignals captured by using CCD sensors coupled with the viewing elementsof the endoscope are transferred to the main control unit via theconnection between the LEMO® connector provided on the endoscope'sconnector and the LEMO® interface provided on the receptacle.

The above examples are merely illustrative of the many applications ofthe system of present specification. Although only a few embodiments ofthe present specification have been described herein, it should beunderstood that the present specification might be embodied in manyother specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of thespecification. Therefore, the present examples and embodiments are to beconsidered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the specificationmay be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. An endoscope system comprising: an endoscope comprising: a tip section having at least one viewing element; a main connector coupled with the tip section and configured to receive and transmit a first set of video data signals from the at least one viewing element wherein the main connector comprises at least one pad; and a control unit comprising: a receptacle positioned on an exterior surface of the control unit and configured to receive the main connector, wherein the receptacle has a first region, wherein the first region comprises at least one probe, wherein said at least one probe comprises a spring loaded pin, and wherein, upon attachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the at least one probe abuts the at least one pad such that the at least one probe is compressed.
 2. The endoscope system of claim 1 wherein the at least one pad is planar and metallic.
 3. The endoscope system of claim 1 wherein the first region comprises a light guide, a gas channel, and a second probe.
 4. The endoscope system of claim 3 wherein the main connector comprises a second pad and wherein, upon attachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the second probe abuts the second pad such that the second probe is compressed.
 5. The endoscope system of claim 1 wherein the receptacle further comprises a second region and wherein said second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals and wherein the second set of video data signals have a lower bandwidth than a bandwidth of the first set of video data signals.
 6. The endoscope of claim 5 wherein the first set of video data signals are generated by a CMOS sensor in the at least one viewing element and have a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.
 7. The endoscope of claim 5 wherein the second set of video data signals are generated by a CCD sensor in the at least one viewing element and have a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.
 8. The endoscope system of claim 1 wherein the first region comprises a light guide, a gas channel, a second probe, and a third probe, wherein the at least one probe, the second probe and third probe are positioned circumferentially around at least one of the light guide and gas channel and wherein each of the second probe and the third probe comprises a spring loaded pin.
 9. The endoscope system of claim 8 wherein the main connector comprises a second pad and a third pad and wherein, upon attachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the second probe abuts the second pad such that the second probe is compressed and the third probe abuts the third pad such that the third probe is compressed.
 10. An endoscope system comprising: an endoscope comprising a tip section having a first viewing element and a second viewing element; a main connector coupled with the tip section and configured to receive and transmit a first set of video data signals from the first viewing element and a second set of video data signals from the second viewing element, wherein the main connector comprises a first pad in data communication with the first viewing element and a second pad in data communication with the second viewing element; and a control unit comprising a receptacle positioned on an exterior surface of the control unit and configured to receive the main connector, wherein the receptacle has a first region, wherein the first region comprises a first probe and a second probe, wherein each of the first probe and second probe comprises a spring loaded pin, and wherein, upon attachment of the main connector to said receptacle, the first probe abuts the first pad such that the first probe is compressed and the second probe abuts the second pad such that the second probe is compressed.
 11. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein each of the first pad and second pad is planar and metallic.
 12. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the receptacle further comprises a second region and wherein said second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured to receive a third set of video data signals and wherein the third set of video data signals have a lower bandwidth than a bandwidth of the first set of video data signals or a bandwidth of the second set of video data signals.
 13. The endoscope of claim 12 wherein the first set of video data signals are generated by a CMOS sensor and have a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.
 14. The endoscope of claim 12 wherein the third set of video data signals are generated by a CCD sensor and have a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.
 15. An endoscope control unit configured to attach to, and be in data communication with, an endoscope, the endoscope control unit comprising a receptacle positioned on an exterior surface of the control unit and configured to receive a main connector of the endoscope; a first region positioned within an exterior face of the receptacle, wherein the first region comprises a first probe, wherein the first probe comprises a spring loaded pin configured to receive a first set of video data signals having a first bandwidth; a second region positioned within the exterior face of the receptacle and separated from the first region, wherein the second region comprises an interface configured to receive a second set of video data signals having a second bandwidth.
 16. The endoscope control unit of claim 15 wherein the interface of the second region comprises a multi-pin interface configured attach to a complementary multi-pin interface in a connector of the endoscope.
 17. The endoscope control unit of claim 15 wherein the first probe is configured to be compressed upon attachment of the receptacle to a connector of the endoscope.
 18. The endoscope control unit of claim 15 wherein the first set of video data signals comprise digital data with a bandwidth greater than 1 GHz.
 19. The endoscope control unit of claim 18 wherein the second set of video data signals comprise digital data with a bandwidth less than 0.5 GHz.
 20. The endoscope control unit of claim 15 wherein the first region further comprises a light guide, a gas channel, a second probe, and a third probe, wherein the first probe, the second probe and third probe are positioned circumferentially around at least one of the light guide and gas channel and wherein each of the second probe and the third probe comprises a spring loaded pin. 